We all worry. Even though we know it’s useless and draining, we try to figure it out, thinking it’s going to help solve the problem, but it never does. It only makes the problem worse because it makes us feel depleted. Here are some surprising ways we can channel worry into something positive.
Get off the worry track
Out of habit, you may feed your worry obsession by being so focused on it, that nothing else enters your mind. Often, in the midst of worry, you reach out for people to commiserate, so you can involve them in your misery. The fact that you’re focused and also reaching out, is a good thing. Shift your focus to actions that will actually solve the problem. Reach out to mobilize help.
Track your worrying
For one day, actually write down the things you worry about and how much time you spend thinking about your problems. See how much energy is wasted by obsessing. What other things could you do with that time? You might not realize how your anxiety eats up your life until you see the numbers in black and white.
Mirror, mirror on the worrying wall
Observe other people who are in the midst of a worry attack. How is their behavior affecting them? What suggestions would you give them to help ease their stress? Now apply that advice to yourself.
Indulge in a guilty pleasure
Instead of wracking your brain trying to come up with a solution, pamper yourself. What is that one thing that always makes you feel good? Now is the time to bring it forth. Sometimes if we take a break to recharge, when we come back, the answer to our problem is staring us right in the face! The choice is yours. Pamper? Or stress?
